Peoria Standard

On October 7, Hamas launched a brutal terrorist attack on Israel, firing thousands of rockets and carrying out numerous incursions into the streets and homes of Israeli civilians. The consequence of this heinous attack has been devastating, with over 1,000 Israelis and at least 22 U.S. citizens killed, thousands more wounded, and numerous abductions and brutalizations of civilians by Hamas terrorists. The Illinois House Republican Caucus strongly condemns this violence and stands with Israel in its defense against these acts of terror.

House Republican Leader Tony McCombie expressed his disgust at the atrocities committed by Hamas, stating, "I am sickened beyond words...especially the slaughter of infants and entire families in their homes, and the savage rape and mutilation of women." He emphasized the need for unequivocal support for the Israeli people and Jewish Americans against threats to their existence and the rising antisemitism displayed both at home and in the Middle East.

In terms of the state budget, a report from the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA) shows an uptick in September 2023 tax payments for the State of Illinois. The increase is primarily due to higher income taxes paid by Illinois residents and higher sales taxes paid on taxable goods and services. However, other key tax receipt lines, such as corporate income taxes and utility taxes, have either remained flat or declined. Cigarette tax revenues continue to decline as more Illinoisans reduce their nicotine consumption.

Illinois made history by becoming the first state to eliminate cash bail as a condition of pre-trial release. However, early reports suggest ongoing concerns from prosecutors about the impact of this decision. McHenry County's top prosecutor, Patrick Kenneally, described the situation in court as "absurd" and "incoherent." He shared examples of individuals who should have been detained pending trial but were instead set free. Kenneally expressed his hope that judges would keep these dangerous criminals in jail until their trials.

The implementation of the new law has presented challenges for the criminal justice system. Attorneys and judges are holding hearings for individuals who were already in custody before the law took effect and want to be released. This process will take weeks as defense attorneys determine whether to proceed under the old system or the new one. The elimination of cash bail has strained resources across the state, with additional staff needed in many areas and budgets stretched thin.

In agricultural news, the corn and soybean harvest in Illinois is in full swing. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that 42% of the corn crop and 44% of the soybean crop has been harvested. Despite the challenges posed by short rainfall and partial drought conditions during the growing season, the crops are progressing well. Farmers are also planting winter wheat, with 30% of the crop already planted, ahead of the usual pace for this time of year.

In the realm of firearms, the implementation of the controversial "assault weapons" ban in Illinois is moving forward despite ongoing court challenges. The new law, known as the Protect Illinois Communities Act, bans certain categories of firearms, fittings, and ammunition fixtures from possession by Illinois residents. While exceptions are made for those who acquired these items prior to January 10, 2023, individuals must file an online endorsement affidavit with the Illinois State Police to take advantage of the exception. Concerns have been raised about the potential for the State Police to collect data on gun ownership through this process.

Lastly, the Illinois Department on Aging has announced the names of three new inductees to the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame for 2023. The honorees, Hilda E. Frontany, Dr. Peter Orris, and Shirley Paceley, have been recognized for their longtime or lifelong patterns of service to their communities. Their induction brings the total number of members in the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame to 137.

As the situation in Israel continues to unfold, Illinois stands in solidarity with the Israeli people, condemning the acts of terror committed by Hamas. The state's budget shows mixed results, with an increase in tax payments but declines in other key areas. The elimination of cash bail has raised concerns among prosecutors, highlighting the need for adjustments to the new law. Meanwhile, the agricultural sector is busy with the corn and soybean harvest, and preparations for the winter wheat crop. The implementation of the firearms ban in Illinois moves forward, while the Illinois Department on Aging honors individuals for their service to their communities.

To find out more, go to this link: https://repryanspain.com/2023/10/17/update-israel-attacked-harvest-time-firearms/